Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta is an inventive fusion dish that beautifully combines the bold, aromatic flavors of traditional Indian Chicken Tikka Masala with the comforting, hearty elements of a classic Italian pasta. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves the complex, spiced richness of Indian cuisine but also craves the familiar, satisfying texture of pasta. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish that is sure to impress with its unique combination of spices, tender chicken, and pasta.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a meal for your family, or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta is an excellent choice. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this fusion masterpiece that brings the best of both worlds together. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of making this delicious dish, provide helpful tips, and suggest variations for customizing it to your taste.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta

• Bold and Flavorful: The rich, aromatic spices used in Chicken Tikka Masala, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, create a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy sauce.
• Fusion of Two Favorite Cuisines: Combining the robust, spiced chicken tikka masala with the comfort of pasta gives you a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. The contrast of Italian and Indian flavors will delight your taste buds in every bite.
• Creamy and Indulgent: The creamy tomato-based sauce, enriched with yogurt and cream, makes every bite smooth, comforting, and indulgent. It creates a luscious coating over the chicken and pasta, ensuring each forkful is packed with flavor.
• Perfect Texture: The tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy sauce come together to provide a satisfying texture that is both hearty and comforting. Each bite is balanced, with enough sauce to coat the pasta without overwhelming it.
• Easy to Make: While it may seem like a complicated dish, Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta comes together with minimal effort. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are simple, making this dish accessible to both novice and experienced cooks.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-550 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-550 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 8-10g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your preferred type)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 cup canned tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• ¾ cup plain yogurt (preferably full-fat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken for the most authentic flavor. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, as well as a pinch of salt. Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt and mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour if you have time) in the refrigerator. This step infuses the chicken with the bold spices and helps tenderize it, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

2. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant. The combination of ginger and garlic adds a nice depth of flavor that complements the spices in the dish.

4. Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. This step ensures the chicken is fully cooked, while also allowing the spices to release their rich aromas into the pan.

5. Prepare the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, add the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the tomatoes to meld with the spices. The tomato base gives the sauce its rich color and tangy flavor, which balances beautifully with the creamy elements later on.

6. Add Yogurt and Cream

Stir in the yogurt and heavy cream. These creamy ingredients create a luxurious sauce that coats the chicken and pasta beautifully. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. The yogurt adds a subtle tang, while the cream provides a rich, velvety texture.

7. Season the Sauce

Add the lemon juice, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), and salt to the sauce. Stir well to combine, and taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice for balance, or more chili powder if you prefer a spicier dish.

8. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and achieve the desired consistency. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy, spiced sauce.

9. Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta is fully coated and heated through, serve it in individual bowls or on a large serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color. You can also add an extra squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta

• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the spices and yogurt enhances the flavor and ensures that the chicken is tender and flavorful. Even if you’re short on time, try to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but longer marination (up to 1 hour) will yield even better results.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the sauce. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.
• Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest, richest sauce, use full-fat yogurt and heavy cream. These ingredients contribute to the indulgent texture of the dish. You can use lighter versions if you prefer, but the sauce may not be as rich and smooth.
• Cook the Chicken in Batches: If you’re cooking a larger amount of chicken, consider cooking the chicken in batches to ensure even browning. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown.
• Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herby flavor that balances the richness of the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute with fresh mint for a slightly different flavor profile.

Variations of Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta

• Vegetarian Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta: Swap the chicken for paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu to create a vegetarian version of this dish. Both options absorb the spices beautifully and offer a delicious alternative to meat.
• Chicken Tikka Masala with Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and color. These vegetables also soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite more hearty.
• Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta: If you like extra heat, increase the amount of chili powder, add a chopped fresh green chili to the sauce, or use a hot curry paste in place of the tomato puree.
• Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta Bake: After combining the pasta and sauce, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, for a cheesy, baked version of this dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave the pasta or reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it as needed, adding a little extra cream or yogurt to refresh the sauce.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta

While this pasta is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal:

• Naan Bread: Serve warm, soft naan bread alongside the pasta to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce. You can also try garlic naan for an extra punch of flavor.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita (yogurt mixed with grated cucumber, cumin, and cilantro) is the perfect side to balance the spiciness of the chicken tikka masala pasta.
• Salad: A refreshing salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted vegetables, such as carrots, cauliflower, or broccoli, as a side dish to add a healthy element and some crunch to your meal.

Print

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta is a flavorful fusion dish that combines the rich, spiced flavors of Indian cuisine with the comforting textures of Italian pasta. Whether you’re looking for something new to try or need to impress your guests, this dish delivers bold flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can

create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it to your preferences, Chicken Tikka Masala Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the unique flavors and comforting richness of this fusion dish with your loved ones today!